parabasis
1
9.9
A part of a play when actors or the chorus stop the story to speak directly to the audience
- noun
- /ˌpærəˈbeɪsɪs/
- Literature
:
parábasis
- Also, there is an extremely broad consensus—though likely not among Parabasis readers—that The Odd Couple is a great American play.
Examples
-
During the parabasis, the playwright often expressed their personal views on current social issues.
-
In ancient Greek comedies, the parabasis was a crucial part where the chorus addressed the audience directly.
-
The audience eagerly anticipated the parabasis, as it featured humorous commentary on the play's themes.
How Direct
to break the fourth wall
2
7.7
- Jargon
2
7.7
parabasis
1
9.9
- Literature
1
9.9
aside
35
5.5
- Literature
35
5.5
soliloquy
10
8.9
- Literature
10
8.9
Surface Forms
Etymology
Parabasis comes from the Greek parts para- meaning 'beside' and basis meaning 'step', so it literally means a 'step aside'. In a play, a parabasis is when the chorus or speaker steps out of the story to talk directly to the audience, which is why it breaks the usual flow.